Final answer:
The moral lesson of 'Rip Van Winkle' is a warning against escapism and the importance of fulfilling one's duties. It emphasizes taking an active role in life to avoid the consequences of becoming irrelevant or out of touch with one's community, while also recognizing the value and impact of even the smallest actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The moral lesson of Rip Van Winkle, a story written by Washington Irving, addresses the consequences of escapism, the importance of taking responsibility, and the passage of time. This story follows Rip Van Winkle, a man who falls asleep in the Catskill Mountains only to wake up 20 years later to a changed world. His avoidance of responsibilities and societal changes during his slumber delivers a cautionary message about the nature of life and the importance of being active and present in one's community.